So What Is Planned for the Inauguration? First: Security
According to Michael Plati, U.S. Secret Service special agent in charge leading inauguration security, the event is planned over a year with contingencies including the possibility of extreme violence and they have already taken into account the recent Capitol siege. Biden himself hasn’t expressed concern about his own security at the inauguration. “I’m not afraid of taking the oath outside,” he told reporters Monday.
Next: speeches and music
Following the presidential swearing-in ceremony, President Biden will deliver his inaugural address. Inaugurations typically include appearances by A-list musicians and performers. Obama's first inauguration in 2009, for instance, featured Aretha Franklin, while his second had Beyoncé and Kelly Clarkson. Trump's inauguration featured a performance by America's Got Talent winner Jackie Evancho. Politicians and religious leaders — including archbishops, pastors and rabbis -— also usually give speeches.